Africell made its first call on its new network in Angola, the major technical milestone marks the start of network operations and prepares the way for a phased roll-out of services.
The phased launch of services that will follow the first call reflects local and international best practice. It is part of how Africell operates as a Group, deploying services in “layers” and investing the time and resources needed to get things right in the early stages so that customers can ultimately enjoy sustainably high-quality services in the long term. By rolling out commercial services in stages, Africell will ensure the best experience for all current and future customers in Angola. The phased launch begins immediately, with data services being offered.
Christopher Lundh, CEO of Africell Angola, commented on the launch saying: “We are delighted to kick off our network by making the first call. The first call on our new network in Angola is the most significant milestone to date, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter for our company, the country, and the people of Angola. Moments like this are why we do what we do. Africell’s mission in Angola is to connect people by bringing them closer and using mobile technology to break down barriers. I want to thank every member of the Africell Angola team whose skill and effort has made this happen despite major external challenges”.
On the other hand, Ziad Dalloul, Chairman and CEO of Africell group, stated: “Africell’s strategy Africa is to give consumers a superior telecommunications experience by harnessing the positive forces of competition and disruption. In Angola, we want our mobile network services to be a springboard for digital transformation – including growth, jobs, and innovation. Africell’s entry to Angola aligns with the government’s reform ambitions and we share the administration’s belief that investments like ours can help Angola realize its potential as a pan-African economic leader”.
Following the first call, Africell engineers will monitor and optimize the performance of the network. As services are offered in phases to corporate and retail customers, coverage will focus initially on Luanda, Angola’s main social and commercial hub which has a population of 8 million people. Coverage and services will later extend to other regions, including Lubango, Benguela and Lobito.